New AZ and National KIDS COUNT Data Books

Children’s Action Alliance, in partnership with the Annie E. Casey Foundation, released two new comprehensive data reports so leaders in the state can be better informed to create action steps that improve children’s health, education, and security. The Arizona KIDS COUNT® Data Book complements the 25th Edition of the national KIDS COUNT® Data Book by delving into county level statistics, adding more indicators not found in the national research, and including personal stories to illustrate the key benchmarks.

Some of the statistics in the research include:

The rate of juveniles arrested for violent crimes dropped by almost half from 2000 to 2013

12 counties had more than half of their children living in low income families

67 percent of Arizona 3 and 4 year olds are not attending preschool, ranging from 54% in Coconino County to 82% in Santa Cruz County

Arizona ranks 46th in the nation on overall conditions for children – only one spot better than in last year’s Data Book

“The data trends point to key areas where state leadership can move the needle for kids,” said Dana Wolfe Naimark, president and CEO of Children’s Action Alliance. “During this campaign season we expect every candidate running for Governor and our state legislature to use the data to develop policy positions and plans that will improve conditions for children.”